I have worked as a Clinical Psychologist specialising in bariatric surgery for over 10 years. I am very familiar with the pre and post op changes and adjustments that occur. I have written a self-help book (Living with Bariatric Surgery: Managing your Mind and your Weight) for people who are considering or who have had bariatric surgery.  Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing (and life-saving) event.  However, it is a psychologically challenging process. This is because of:

 

• the degree of behaviour changes required for bariatric surgery to be successful

• the emotional connections with food or the psychological difficulties that impact on eating​

• the rapid and dramatic changes in weight that people may experience after surgery can create a different set of issues to deal with. 

 

The type of pre and post-surgery bariatric psychology issues that I can help with include:

 

• Making changes and creating new habits in preparation for surgery

• Understanding and developing strategies to manage emotional eating

• Addressing psychological issues that affect coping and eating

• Developing new coping skills

• Adjustments and changes following surgery 

• Building confidence and self-esteem

• Body image issues

• Problematic eating following surgery (including binge eating, food aversions and restrictive eating)

• Maintaining weight loss

• Managing setbacks and getting back on track

• Weight regain